Historical Studies Courses (HIS)

Historical Studies are intended to provide the student with insight into the development of the church over time, understanding of factors influencing its vitality and effectiveness, and appreciation for the traditions of thought and leadership that have contributed to its growth.

HIS 540 - History of Christianity I (3 Credits)A chronological survey of the history of Christianity from the first century until the eve of the Reformation that is concerned not only with ecclesiastical organization and practice but also with the history of theology, mission and spirituality, and the various social, political and theological influences that have shaped the changing relationship between Christianity and culture.

HIS 541 - History of Christianity II (3 Credits)A continuation of HIS 540, this course examines issues and movements in the history of western Christianity from the Reformation to the present. To understand both the developments within the church, and the many relationships between Christianity and western culture, attention is given to theological developments, church-state issues, changes and continuities in Catholicism and Protestantism, the impact of nationalism and the Enlightenment, and the modern missionary movement.

HIS 604 - Mennonite Brethren/Anabaptist Studies (3 Credits)A study of the origins and development of the 16th-century Anabaptist movement, and the emergence and growth of the Mennonite Brethren Church in Russia and North America. The historical survey serves as the foundation from which to examine the cultural, theological forces that have shaped and currently challenge Mennonite Brethren faith and life, theology, worship, ecclesiology and ethics.

HIS 605 - Evangelical Free Church History & Thought (3 Credits)This course will survey the historical development of the Free Church Movement, its theological roots and doctrinal distinctives, and introduce students to the polity and credentialing expectations of the Evangelical Free Church in Canada and the United States.

HIS 608 - Cultural Character of Evangelicals (3 Credits)By using a combination of sociological, cultural and historical analyses, the course will examine various themes within, and characteristics of, evangelical Protestantism in North America. The course will explore the manner in which evangelicalism has shaped the culture of both Canada and the United States, as well as the way in which evangelical Protestantism as an expression of Christian faith, is a unique reflection of its North American context. The course will be an opportunity for students to use their understanding of the evangelical tradition as a spring-board for their own critical reflection on various aspects of contemporary evangelicalism and its prospects at the beginning of the twenty-first century.

HIS 610 - Baptist History & Thought (3 Credits)A survey of the origins of various Baptist movements, particularly as these relate to the development of Baptist traditions in Canada. The continuities and changes are traced historically, but related to specific cultural challenges. The character, faith and life of Baptists generally is considered in the context of the larger Believers’ Church movement.

HIS 663 - History of the Non-Western Church (3 Credits)This course explores the story of Christianity as it has developed outside the Western world, with special focus on recent centuries during which Christianity experienced tremendous global expansion. The missionary efforts launched from Europe and North America will be reviewed. The development of Christianity in places such as East Asia, South Asia, Africa and Latin America will be examined with particular attention given to the globalization of evangelical Protestantism. The course will be of particular use to those interested in understanding issues related to the cross-cultural spread of Christianity.

HIS 690 - Global Pentecostalism (3 Credits)The course is an attempt to define the impact of the Pentecostal/charismatic movement on world Christianity. The movement will be traced as to its scope and variety in both Pentecostal and non-Pentecostal circles, and analyzed in terms of the factors related to its widespread acceptance.

HIS 691 - Special Topic (Church History) (3 Credits)This course gives the student an opportunity to do focused study in a specialized area of Church History and/or Historical Theology. It will help students to broaden and deepen their knowledge of the field, challenge them to do in-depth critical research of current issues and concepts, and promote growth in skills that are relevant to the discipline.

HIS 745 - History of Christianity in Canada (3 Credits)A vital introduction to Canadian history and culture for Christian leaders, the course serves as a springboard for reflection about the prospects of ministry in Canada by tracing the story of Christianity from the beginnings of European settlement through to the present. It explores Christianity’s role in forging the nation, and examines political events and significant cultural and social changes that have, in turn, shaped Christianity in Canada. Significant attention is given to evangelical Protestantism.